Poor lifestyle habits have made people more susceptible to various health conditions, including kidney disease. However, most people do not know that they are suffering from it since the symptoms may not appear until its advanced stages and sometimes, the symptoms may be attributed to other conditions. Amid this, a high number of myths and lack of information around kidney disease make it further difficult to diagnose the condition at an early stage. So, the doctors at HJ Hospitals busted some of the common myths about it; read on to understand. And if you are looking for any health specialist ranging from “nephrologist in DRC”, “nutritionist in Kinshasa”, “general practitioner in Congo” to “dermatologist near me”, look no further and visit HJ Hospitals. 

Myth #1: People rarely develop kidney disease 

Fact: Kidney disease is no longer a rare condition. A large number of adults are living with some level of kidney disease. Factors like diabetes, hypertension, advancing age or a family history of kidney failure increase its risk. 

Myth #2: Signs and symptoms will indicate if you have kidney disease 

Fact: Most people with kidney disease do not develop any distinguishable sign or symptom at its early stages. Symptoms may appear in the very last stages only when the chances of successful treatment and recovery are the least. Therefore, for an early diagnosis and successful treatment, people who are at a higher risk should get themselves regularly tested. 

Myth #3: Diagnostic tests for kidney disease are expensive

Fact: The presence of kidney disease can be detected by simple and inexpensive tests - a blood test and urine test, which are often a part of the regular preventive health checkups. If the urine test shows the presence of protein, it may be due to kidney disease. Similarly, GFR (glomerular filtration rate) number can be estimated by a simple blood test which indicates the health and functioning of the kidneys. Your doctor may suggest further diagnostic tests to understand the stage. 

Myth #4: People at a risk for kidney disease cannot prevent the condition 

Fact: Though certain factors are known to increase the risk for kidney disease, however, not everyone at the risk develops the condition. Such people can protect their kidneys by adopting habits such as exercising regularly, eating healthy, maintaining blood sugar and blood pressure, maintaining healthy body weight and quitting tobacco. 

Mentioned above are some of the most common myths about kidney disease. If you find yourself or your loved ones at a high risk, do not wait for the symptoms to appear and consult a doctor at HJ Hospitals for further preventive tips and factual information. HJ Hospitals houses a state-of-the-art diagnostic centre and nephrology department to provide you with world-class healthcare facilities. We are manned by experienced specialists, surgeons, nurses and other medical staff. So, schedule an appointment today for any related concerns and step towards a healthier life!